About the park
Established in 1978, what was originally the New River Gorge National River was established by President Carter to protect 53 miles of river rich in fish and amphibian species. This was then expanded into the forests and surrounding area in 2020, being designated as a national park and preserve. Around 65 species of mammals including numerous bat species are thought to reside in the protected area, but previous human settlements are also found in the park. An old railway passes through Thurmond, while the small town of Nuttalburg was home to a coal mine and now has no residents, giving it a very ghost-town feel.
Besides the wildlife and sites of human history now preserved, New River Gorge National Park is possibly best known for the recreational activities on offer! Some of the best white water rafting in the country can be found between Cunard and Fayette Station, with trips being offered during summer and early fall when the river flow is not exceedingly strong. Rock climbing is also very popular amongst visitors, with around 1400 different rock climbing routes available. Many come to the area to fish, although only permitted in the grounds of the preserve, and not the national park. Mountain biking and hiking trails are dotted throughout the park, with some great vantage points, such as Grandview. Visiting New River Gorge Bridge should also be ticked off any visitors list, which is the one of the longest single arch bridges in the world!
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Can't miss
New River Gorge Bridge
Spanning 3,030 ft, this bridge was the longest single arched bridge in the world for 26 years, and remains the longest outside of China. Many visitors will drive over it, and it quite gracefully merges into nature for some great photo opportunities!
Sandstone Falls
Located towards the south of the park, Sandstone Falls is the largest waterfall on the New River, spanning 1500 ft across and dropping between 10 ft and 25 ft. Stop off at the small boardwalk beside them to take in all their beauty, along with a stunning West Virginia backdrop.
Whitewater Raft through the gorge
With some of the best whitewater rafting in the country, New River has rapids varying from grade III to V, which can only really be tackled by more experienced rafters. But in the summer months when the river flow is reduced, companies offer trips down these rapids - a must for any adventurer!
Explore the park
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Points of interest
Trails
As ever, we recommend conducting some of your own research on hikes as well as talking to park rangers in order to find less populated trails that may be of interest, helping prevent overcrowding and erosion of the park's best known routes. But here are a few suggestions to consider to get you started...
Gentle
Sandstone Falls &
Island Loop
Sandstone Falls
Length (roundtrip): 1.0 miles
Approximate duration: 30-60 mins
Maximum elevation: 1300 ft
Max-Min elevation change: 20 ft
Sandstone Falls are one of the most beautiful spots of New River Gorge National Park, extending across the entirety of New River, around 1500 ft. This hike takes you closer to the falls, with a section of boardwalk that reaches across to an island, making it very accessible.
Stop at these falls and listen to the rushing of the water down them for as long as you wish. But either before or after, consider taking the small Island Loop trail, only an extra half mile or so, which ventures through some small woodlands dotted with wildflowers, and comes close to the river. The loop is a little rocky so is not quite as accessible as the boardwalk, but should still be a nice challenge for young children!
Moderate
Long Point Trail
Bowl Trail Trailhead
Length (roundtrip): 3.2 miles
Approximate duration: 1-3 hours
Maximum elevation: 1960 ft
Max-Min elevation change: 240 ft
A popular hike, the walk out to Long Point ends up providing some of the best views in the park, with the gorge, river and bridge all perfectly visible. Start off at a small car park close to Gatewood Road and then take the Long Point Trail heading right.
Most of the hike is forested, with rhododendrons aplenty providing colour as you head north towards the overlook. The trail is pretty flat throughout, with only a little descent when close to the view. A popular recommendation is hiking just before sunset in order to watch the changing colour of the sky beyond the bridge, and then hiking back with flashlights.
Demanding
Glade Creek Trail
Glade Creek Lower Trailhead
Length (roundtrip): 11.6 miles
Approximate duration: 3-4 hours
Maximum elevation: 2050 ft
Max-Min elevation change: 790 ft
Yet another beautiful trail, Glade Creek follows the path of an old narrow gauge railway, alongside the stream itself. Longer than most of the trails in the park, but not massively challenging with only gradual elevation changes, this hike is ideal for those looking to test themselves a little more without feeling overwhelmed.
Along the trail are small waterfalls, and in parts the stream widens, creating water holes which, while pretty cold in spring and fall, are very pleasant in the summer months when average high temperatures in the park reach 80. The hike back follows the same route and is downhill, bringing you back near the New River, and close to a trout catch and release stream, so keep an eye out for fishermen!
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When to visit
We recommend:
Summer - for the best weather and longest days to enjoy the outdoor adventures!
Itineraries
